Date of Award
Summer 2025
Document Type
Open Access Thesis
Department
Geography
First Advisor
Cuizhen WAng
Abstract
The study of microphytobenthos (MPB) distributions in mudflat ecosystems is critical for understanding coastal ecosystem health and resilience. This research integrates high-resolution multispectral imagery and elevation data to predict chlorophyll-a concentrations in mudflats within the North Inlet estuary, South Carolina. Using statistical analyses, MSAVI was identified as the most effective spectral index for chlorophyll-a prediction, and a regression model was generated for this index, finding significant correlation with elevation. Temporal and spatial patterns of chlorophyll-a distributions were explored through predictive rasters, revealing significant relationships between MPB abundance and microtopography. These findings demonstrate the value of remote sensing for non-invasive MPB monitoring and provide a foundation for advancing coastal management practices, particularly in tracking ecosystem responses to environmental stressors.
Rights
© 2025, Joseph Carmine McGuinn
Recommended Citation
McGuinn, J. C.(2025). Combining Remote Sensing and Field Sampling to Assess Microphytobenthos Distribution in the North Inlet Estuary, South Carolina. (Master's thesis). Retrieved from https://scholarcommons.sc.edu/etd/8466